Planetary Health (KNAW)

Planetary Health was launched as a new scientific field in 2015. It focuses on the consequences of global environmental change for the health and survival of all species living on Earth. Examples of possible effects on human health include heat stress, infectious diseases and pandemics, malnutrition, and mental health problems. Fortunately, many negative consequences can still be avoided if measures are taken
in the short term.

The Academy believes that science can play an indispensable role in tackling societal challenges of this kind by establishing and analysing facts and finding solutions. This belief prompted the Academy to set up the Planetary Health Committee, charged with surveying this emerging field and drawing up a research agenda of knowledge gaps that require urgent action.